The “Portrait of a Graduate” initiative emerged as a focal point of the meeting, drawing attention for its comprehensive approach to defining the attributes of district graduates. The document, informed by community input through focus groups and surveys, identifies five core attributes: collaborators, communicators, community contributors, strategic thinkers, and performance-minded individuals. The initiative seeks to align educational practices with these attributes. A presenter detailed how these attributes are articulated in student-friendly language, making them accessible and understandable. The initiative also includes a Spanish translation to reach a broader audience. The presenter emphasized the real-life application of these attributes through community service projects and student fundraising efforts.

Board members expressed strong support for the initiative, praising its clarity and accessibility. The motion to approve the “Portrait of a Graduate” was made, seconded, and passed unanimously.

In addition to the “Portrait of a Graduate,” the meeting highlighted a substantial increase in student enrollment, with eight new students enrolling in the middle and high school on the day of the meeting alone. This increase is expected to continue, attributed to families finalizing school decisions at the last moment. The principal introduced a new school links portal aimed at consolidating student career planning resources, such as scholarships, grades, and college visits, into a single platform. This system is designed to streamline management and enhance communication between home and school. The principal expressed optimism about the new portal, noting its potential to improve engagement and information accessibility for parents.

The board also discussed senior privileges, traditionally granted in the second semester. The principal advocated for an earlier start to these privileges, allowing seniors to experience adult responsibilities sooner. Under this plan, parents would receive permission slips outlining the conditions for off-campus privileges, which could be revoked for poor academic performance or tardiness. This approach had been successful in the previous year, with most students maintaining their privileges due to a strong desire to keep them.

The meeting included the introduction of new staff members, including Maggie Wish, a recent graduate, and two teachers from the Philippines facing logistical challenges with immigration and educational departments. Long-term substitutes Kristen Brockwork and Clinda Loving were also introduced, filling roles in eighth-grade math and special education, respectively. Updates on the school lunch program were shared, with plans for a new salad bar and soup options to cater to student preferences during colder weather.

Professional development opportunities were outlined, focusing on leveraging artificial intelligence in the classroom. Three upcoming seminars will emphasize the importance of teaching students to utilize AI effectively.

Reports from the elementary leadership team highlighted ongoing work on the “Portrait of a Graduate” initiative and the significance of building relationships with families through back-to-school conferences. The introduction of a new literacy curriculum was mentioned, along with opportunities for students to take books home, fostering literacy engagement. Playground improvements were discussed, including a new flagpole and communication board to support non-verbal students, as well as the addition of a volleyball net.

The board approved several other items, including donations and trips. A $300 contribution was accepted for baseball in memory of Gary, and a $4,000 donation from the Ag Committee was approved for the FFA National Convention trip. This trip, taking place from October 28 to November 1, includes a contest at Purdue University and a tour of a meat processing plant. The Pipestone Ag Chamber Committee will cover some costs, while the school requested funding for transportation and a substitute teacher, totaling $1,800. The educational value of the trip was emphasized, highlighting the school’s history of successful FFA teams.

The board also declared surplus rock from a roof project, agreeing to utilize as much as possible for school projects before selling it. They approved the transportation contract with Southwest Minnesota Christian for the 2025-2026 school year, consistent with previous terms.